Chasing Big Dreams: How IHS Students Made It to ETC Theater
Training with the Help of Their Community

Every big goal starts with a dream, and for a group of ambitious IHS students in our
Incline community, the dream was to attend Electronic Theatre Control “ETC”
theater lighting training program that could shape their future. This training, which
promises to hone their skills and open up new opportunities, wasn’t just a wish—it
was a goal worth pursuing. But as with many dreams, there was a challenge
standing in the way: funding.

The Goal: A Transformational Training Opportunity

The ETC Theater Lighting training program is far more than an ordinary event—it is
an immersive journey filled with intense learning, innovation, and opportunities for
both professional and personal growth. For our students, it represented a chance to
expand their knowledge, sharpen their skills, and bring those newfound abilities
back to their schools and communities.

The IHS Theater Tech class plans to take this initiative to the next level by
collaborating with the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. Through this partnership,
students will have the chance to secure internships at local theaters in Reno and
Lake Tahoe, gaining valuable real-world experience and a direct pathway to careers
in the arts.

The excitement surrounding this opportunity was undeniable, but it quickly became
clear that financial support was crucial to turn this dream into a reality.

The Obstacle: Finding the Funds

Quality training often comes with a price tag, and this was no exception. The cost of
attendance—including registration, travel, and materials—was more than what the
Drama department could afford to sponsor on its own. Determined not to let
finances hold them back, the IHS Theater Tech class decided to take action.

The Strategy: Raising Funds and Seeking Matches

The students, guided by their teacher Mrs. Courtney Taves and parent volunteer
Michael Aberle, developed a two-fold strategy. First, they launched an fundraising
campaign, which went beyond your typical car wash. The students learned dramatic
sports photography and then organized IHS’s first Media Day for student-athletes
from the football, soccer, golf and volleyball teams. They also reached out to local
organizations, including IEF (Incline Education Fund), Kathie Goldberg, Director of
the Star Follies, and IHS Boosters, to request matching donations. Their pitch was
simple but compelling: investing in their training was an investment in the students,
The IHS Duffield Theater, and the community's future.

The Work: A Community Effort and a Match

The students’ hard work, creativity, and dedication rallied the community. Parents,
teachers, and neighbors came together, contributing their time, money, and support
to help the students reach their goal.

Thanks to the generosity of the IEF, Follies, and Boosters, the students’ fundraising
efforts were met with matching donations. This critical support turned their work
into a fully funded opportunity to attend the ETC Theater Lighting training. It was a
testament to the power of community collaboration and the belief in the potential of
young minds.

IHS and Community Testimonial: Gratitude and Pride

“We are so proud of the students,” said Mrs.Taves and Michael Aberle. “Their
initiative and creativity were remarkable, and the community participation gave
them a lot of confidence Thanks to the IEF, Follies, and Boosters, this incredible
opportunity became a reality. These students are just getting started, and they’re
going to learn so much more ”

Tara Cannon, President of Incline Boosters, shared, “Their journey to the ETC
Theater Lighting training program showcases the power of ambition, hard work, and
community support. Watching them embrace this transformational opportunity has
been inspiring, and we’re excited to see the impact of their new skills on our school
and community.”

Sharon Schrage and Mary Danahey of IEF added, “Supporting these students alongside the Boosters and Follies was an honor. Their creativity, teamwork, and resilience are inspiring, and we can’t wait to see them teach future generations. Investing in our students’ futures is what IEF is all about.”

Student Testimonial: Excitement for the Future

“I’m so excited to attend this training,” said Junior Andrew Perez. “I’ve wanted to
learn more about lighting and sound, and this is my chance to do it. I can’t wait to
come back and share what I’ve learned with my classmates and community. Thank
you to everyone who made this possible!”

A Bright Future Ahead

Thanks to their determination and the support of their community, these students
are now on their way to an experience that will shape their futures. This story is a
reminder that with a clear goal, a solid strategy, and the power of community,
anything is possible. Here’s to dreaming big, working hard, and making it happen!